Written by Evelyn Mytka, Contributing Writer
Canada Day is a chance to celebrate everything that makes this country special—and that includes the incredible small businesses right here in Alberta. In fact, small businesses make up over 87% of all businesses in Alberta — they’re the heart of our economy and our neighbourhoods. Whether you’re grabbing treats for a backyard BBQ, picking up something handmade for a host gift, or just want to support your neighbours, choosing local is a great way to mark the holiday.
Alberta-Made, Community-Powered
To mark Canada Day, we’re proud to spotlight a few of the many incredible entrepreneurs we’ve worked with at Business Link. These small businesses, each supported through our free programs and services, showcase the creativity, resilience, and diversity that make Alberta’s local economy so vibrant.
El Chorizo Latino (Edmonton)
This family-run company offers authentic Argentinean, Colombian, Puerto Rican, and Mexican chorizos — perfect for grilling or including in a charcuterie spread. Products are available through Edmonton pick-up and local farmers’ markets.
CaroQuilla (Edmonton)
Sustainable underwear and reusable pads made with bamboo, supporting mental health—with 1% of sales donated to mental wellbeing causes. Eco-conscious and comfort-focused.
Last Shot Apparel (Edmonton)
This sustainable clothing brand turns Canadian deadstock fabric into hoodies, tees, and more, minimizing waste and promoting circular fashion.
FirstBase Skincare (Calgary)
Founded by April Ferguson in 2022, this ECOCERT® organic, vegan line features clinically backed Vitamin C serum and cruelty-free formulas, made right here in Calgary.
Doaf Afro Collections (Edmonton)
Vibrant African-inspired ready-to-wear clothing and haircare products, including custom pieces and free local shipping over $150.
Daddy C’s Jerk Sauce (Calgary)
Launched in 2020 by Yvonne and Vindel Chang, Daddy C’s offers authentic Jamaican jerk sauces—mild, hot, and vegan—ideal for Canada Day BBQs. Available in Calgary retailers and grocery chains.
The Bare Company (Crowsnest Pass)
This family-run brand crafts small-batch, non-toxic cleaners in the Rocky Mountains using plant- and mineral-based ingredients that are gentle on your family and local waterways. From their all-purpose cleaner and bathroom bundles to dishwasher detergent and glass spray, everything is refillable and free from synthetic chemicals. Many products are available in local refill stations and eco-conscious retailers across Alberta.
Corral Rustic Furniture (Foothills, Alberta)
Crafted by master woodworker Francisco Munoz‑Corral whose passion for woodworking began over 50 years ago in Mexico, Corral Rustic Furniture creates heirloom-quality pieces by hand right here in Alberta. Their showroom features one-of-a-kind rustic treasures like bed frames, cutting boards, hall trees, framed art, mirrors, and tables, all designed to blend timeless tradition with modern comfort.
Stolen Harvest Meadery (Grovedale, Alberta)
Nestled on a ten-acre forest property near Grovedale, Stolen Harvest Meadery handcrafts small-batch meads using local honey and wild-foraged fruits. Founded by Kristeva Dowling, their award-winning flavours, like Wild Rose Petal and Saskatoon Berry, reflect Alberta’s landscape.
Family Coffee Trade (Calgary)
This roastery brings the rich coffee-growing legacy of Guatemala to Alberta—importing beans from family-run farms (dating back to the 1890s) and roasting them fresh locally. Founded in 2021, they focus on sustainability, direct trade, and preserving agricultural tradition, offering subscriptions and free shipping across Canada.
Infused Mediterranean Foods (Edmonton)
Founded by Chef Ruba Al‑Qishawi in 2017, this Edmonton-based producer offers small-batch, preservative-free hummus and heat-and-eat falafel. Drawing on Palestinian family recipes and made with local, gluten‑free, vegan ingredients, their flavorful line-up includes classic hummus and four chef-inspired varieties. Available at farmers’ markets and grocery shelves across Alberta, they deliver Middle Eastern taste rooted in Canadian-made quality.
The Cove Tea Company (Stony Plain)
The Cove Tea Company hand-blends luxury loose-leaf teas, artisan syrups, and tea bombs in small batches, using only natural ingredients. Recently reimagined to reflect a “cove of peace,” the brand focuses on bringing calm and elegance to every cup. Their ethically sourced teas and commitment to compostable packaging reflect a strong focus on sustainability. You can now visit their newly opened café in Stony Plain or find them online and at artisan markets across the Edmonton area.
This Canada Day, consider choosing one (or more!) of these Albertan treasures. Whether you’re firing up the grill, hosting a gathering, or simply pampering yourself or a loved one, there’s something local to enhance the moment.
Thinking of launching, growing, or scaling a local business of your own? Get free advice from a Business Link Strategist, whether you’re just getting started or planning your next big step.
